White Ceramic Mug “Mary Jackson: The Sky Was Never the Limit.”

Mary Jackson was a trailblazing mathematician and aerospace engineer who became NASA’s first Black female engineer in 1958. Her contributions were essential to the success of the U.S. space program, and her story was later highlighted in the book and film Hidden Figures.

Early Life & Education

• Born April 9, 1921, in Hampton, Virginia.
• Earned a dual degree in mathematics and physical science from Hampton Institute in 1942.
• Initially worked as a math teacher before transitioning into engineering.

Career at NASA

• Joined NACA (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics) in 1951, working in the West Area Computing unit, a segregated group of Black female mathematicians.
• In 1958, after completing engineering courses, she became NASA’s first Black female engineer.
• Conducted aerodynamic research and co-authored reports on supersonic flight.
• Later transitioned into advocacy, working to improve opportunities for women in STEM.

Legacy & Recognition

• Posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2019.
• NASA’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. was renamed in her honor in 2021.
• Her story continues to inspire generations of scientists and engineers.

Mary Jackson’s legacy is a powerful reminder of resilience and excellence.